March 25, 2024, Monday of Holy Week Read: Is 42: 1-7 Jn 12: 1-11
“They gave a dinner for Jesus, and Martha served, while Lazarus was one of those reclining at table with him. Mary took a liter of costly perfumed oil made from genuine aromatic nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and dried them with her hair.” (Jn 12:2-3)
Jesus must have been preoccupied with His imminent Passion. Just a short time before this scene, He commented to His apostles: “‘Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem and everything written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. He will be handed over to the Gentiles and he will be mocked and insulted and spat upon…’ But they understood nothing of this; the word remained hidden from them and they failed to comprehend what he said.” (Lk 18:31-34)
At the dinner for Jesus mentioned in today’s Gospel, Mary Magdalene had acquired a very fine perfumed nard to anoint the Master, as was the custom of showing respect towards persons of high stature. While Jesus and his followers were at table, Mary Magdalene went to anoint His feet. Everyone accepted and understood the act, except Judas.
Out of pride, jealousy, envy, and greed, Judas reproached Mary Magdalene.
But Jesus came to her defense, comparing what she was doing to the anointing of a corpse at the time of death. “Leave her alone. Let her keep this for the day of my burial.” (Jn 12:7)
Mary demonstrated her great love and respect for the Lord through this humble and intimate sacrificial service. What are we doing to show our love for Him?
Reflection and commentary
Psalm 144:4 “Man is but a breath; his days are like a passing shadow.”
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